Books with title I, Too, Am America

Winner of the Coretta Scott King illustrator award, I, Too, Am America blends the poetic wisdom of Langston Hughes with visionary illustrations from Bryan Collier in this inspirational picture book that carries the promise of equality.I, too, sing America.I am the darker brother.They send me to eat in the kitchenWhen company comes,But I laugh,And eat well,And grow strong. Langston Hughes was a courageous voice of his time, and his authentic call for equality still rings true today. Beautiful paintings from Barack Obama illustrator Bryan Collier accompany and reinvent the celebrated lines of the poem "I, Too," creating a breathtaking reminder to all Americans that we are united despite our differences. This picture book of Langston Hughes’s celebrated poem, "I, Too, Am America," is also a Common Core Text Exemplar for Poetry.

This is a delightful introduction to the 50 states and the District of Columbia, presented through stories, statistics, legends, descriptions, and music. Three former US presidents and four first ladies join with 16 actors and actresses to narrate this work, presented from the points of view of the individual states. The program opens with a reading of the Pledge of Allegiance performed by President George H.W. Bush and First Lady Barbara Bush; President Ronald Reagan and First Lady Nancy Reagan; First Lady Rosalynn Carter; and President Gerald Ford and First Lady Betty Ford. The lively and entertaining performances include the talents of Betty White, Ben Vereen, Rita Moreno, Elliott Gould, and others.

Just after World War I, Rosina and her family leave Italy and sail to America, land of opportunity. But when they settle in New York, American girls make fun of Rosie's dress, her foreign accent, and her ethnic food. How can she prove to the world that she is an American, too? As the feast of San Gennaro approaches, banners, piles of cheeses, and special pastries fill shop windows. Rosie, chosen to be queen of the celebration, is torn between excitement and her desire to be a modern girl. So when she appears in the parade, the band suddenly stops, and everyone stares, for Rosie has a surprise for them all. Elisa Bartone, a teacher in the New York City Public Schools, based American Too on an old family story told to her by a great-uncle. There was a real Rosie who led the feast day parade. Bartone has molded this account into a tale that shines with all the enthusiasm and optimism of those who immigrated to America, the great melting pot.

Poet and photographer Charles Smith, Jr. has created a poignant, stunning photographic picture book that celebrates the many faces that make up America."I am America/I am proud/I am diverse/soft-spoken/and loud."The powerful poem in this one-of-a-kind book is enhanced by the accompanying photographs that represent children of diverse ethnic and racial backgrounds. The playful images and touching poetry work together to tell the story of America. Children and parents alike will be moved by each unforgettable face and each strikingly beautiful line of verse. Photographer Charles Smith, Jr. brings his unique artistic style to this patriotic and poignant portrayal of America's children.

Five years later, in memory of all the victims ... After the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, many American Muslim families were subject to hate crimes. These crimes were directly related to such common social ills as racial profiling and lack of knowledge. I AM AN AMERICAN, TOO is the story of Ahmad, a young boy who works his way through the fear and confusion of hate crimes to focus on all the good that surrounds him. In this sensitive and reassuring tale, Ahmad's friends and neighbors bridge cultural differences by sharing in each other's joys and sorrows. Although Ahmad's family belongs to a specific ethnic group, this young boy is all American. His story appeals to all children who must face the uncertainties of an adult world.

Poet and photographer Charles Smith, Jr. has created a poignant, stunning photographic picture book that celebrates the many faces that make up America."I am America/I am proud/I am diverse/soft-spoken/and loud."The powerful poem in this one-of-a-kind book is enhanced by the accompanying photographs that represent children of diverse ethnic and racial backgrounds. The playful images and touching poetry work together to tell the story of America. Children and parents alike will be moved by each unforgettable face and each strikingly beautiful line of verse. Photographer Charles Smith, Jr. brings his unique artistic style to this patriotic and poignant portrayal of America's children.

"Watercolor paintings are glorious in this Italian American story, a companion to Peppe the Lamplighter. Rosie wants to be 'modern...really American.' When chosen to be queen in the festival of San Gennaro, she's at first reluctant to be part of such an Italian event, but then she surprises -- and thrills -- everyone by dressing up as the Statue of Liberty....A celebration of an ethnic tradition."--Booklist.